For an overview of all tools discussed, click on the SITE MAP in the top left. From the Section drop-down, choose GEOSPATIAL TOOLS

Hardware

The 2 essential hardware components for GPS data collection are: 1) a GPS receiver/antenna to receive signals from the satellites and 2) a mobile device – that is, a platform for mobile GIS software that can be used for viewing and storing information from those signals. Any mobile computer - whether it be a handheld device, laptop or personal data assistant (PDA). The mobile device and GPS receiver can be combined in either one unit or remain separate. Juniper systems, Palm PDSa, ToughBooks are just some examples. For a comparision of Windows CE devices, check out this link. Described here for demonstration purposes is the Trimble line of mapping grade units.

GeoExplorer series

The GPS receiver and the mobile device are housed in a single, integrated rugged mobile device. In the GeoXM, XT and XH models, the antenna is directly under the Trimble logo on the mobile device.

Pathfinder Pro series

A pole-mounted GPS receiver (Pro XT, XH, XRT) communicates via a wireless BlueTooth connection with a separate mobile device. A Trimble Ranger, Recon, or GeoExplorer, or Juniper Systems Allegro or Archer can serve as the mobile device. Any mobile computing device that can communicate with the GPS receiver and run software for data collection can serve as a mobile device.

Pathfinder XB/XC

The GPS receiver and antenna are housed in a small Bluetooth-capable unit, or a Compact Flash GPS card. These small but less accurate GPS receivers can be added to an existing mobile device, laptop or tablet PC.

Juno ST or Nomad

The GPS receiver and the mobile device are housed in a single, integrated mobile device. The Juno ST is smaller but not ruggedized. The Nomad is rugged but larger. The GPS receiver is a high-sensitivity SiRF GPS chip.

All mobile devices require both an operating system (OS) and data collection software.

Operating Systems

In the past few years, Microsoft has used a number of terms for the version of Windows used for mobile devices including Handheld PC, Windows CE, Windows CE .NET, Pocket PC and Windows Mobile. The most current operating systems for Trimble mobile devices is the Microsoft Windows Mobile 5 or Mobile 6 OS. These operating systems specifically designed to run on mobile devices.

Mobile device software

Data collection software is used in the field to collect and update data.

ESRI ArcPad

This ESRI software is tightly integrated with ArcGIS and is the focus of this manual. ArcPad is based on an ArcGIS background. This facilitates data and file management.

Trimble GPScorrect Extension for ArcPad

This optional Trimble software allows mobile users to configure GPS receivers settings on the mobile device and post-process collected data. GPScorrect is used in conjunction with ArcPad. While ArcPad can be used independently of GPScorrect, those users will not be able filter incoming GPS signals while in the field or differentially correct their GPS data upon returning to the office.

Trimble GPScorrect Extension for ArcPad

This data collection software does not require GPScorrect to filter incoming GPS signals while in the field or differentially correct their GPS data upon returning to the office.